The aroma of sweet, smoky goodness wafting through the kitchen transports me to Sunday family dinners filled with laughter and joy. One dish that never fails to impress is the Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham. This recipe combines tender, savory ham with a luscious glaze that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly crowd-pleasing. With just a handful of ingredients, including rich maple syrup and bourbon, you can elevate a simple ham into a centerpiece that’s worthy of celebration. Not only is this dish a delightful departure from fast food, but it also brings warmth and comfort into your home. Picture guests gathered around the table, delighting in each tender slice drizzled with that perfectly caramelized glaze. Ready to bring a taste of nostalgia to your next meal? Let’s dive into how to create your very own maple bourbon masterpiece!
Why is this ham recipe a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: This Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham bursts with rich sweetness, thanks to a heavenly blend of maple syrup and bourbon.
Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a stunning dish ready to impress without the fuss.
Perfect for Occasions: Whether it's a holiday feast or a family gathering, this glaze elevates any occasion, making your meal memorable.
Mouthwatering Aromas: Imagine the delightful scent wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather round the table for a slice of perfection.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm for a festive feast or as delicious leftovers in sandwiches – the flavors only get better!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you won’t want to go back to mundane meals. If you're looking for more crowd-pleasing ideas, check out our effortless side dishes to complement your meal perfectly!
Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Ingredients
• Get ready to elevate your meal with these simple yet flavorful ingredients!
For the Ham
- Fully cooked bone-in ham – about 8-10 pounds, this is the star of your dish that will be beautifully glazed.
For the Glaze
- Pure maple syrup – 1 cup, brings a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the ham.
- Bourbon – ½ cup, adds depth and a hint of warmth to the glaze.
- Packed brown sugar – ½ cup, enhances the caramelization for that irresistible finish.
- Dijon mustard – ¼ cup, adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon, introduces a warm spice that evokes cozy meals.
- Ground cloves – ½ teaspoon, for a fragrant note that enhances the overall flavor.
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon, for a touch of spice that rounds out the taste.
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon, to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
- Whole cloves – for decoration (optional), these cloves not only look charming but infuse additional flavor as well.
Now that you have your ingredients for this delightful Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham, let’s continue crafting those unforgettable flavors!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven warms up, grab a roasting pan and set a roasting rack inside. This will lift the ham off the bottom of the pan, ensuring that it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
If your ham has a thick outer skin, take a sharp knife and carefully score the surface in a diamond pattern. This technique creates small pockets for the glaze to soak into, enhancing the flavor throughout your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham.
Step 3: Position the Ham
Place the ham on the roasting rack in the pan, ensuring the cut side is facing down. Loosely cover the ham with aluminum foil to keep it moist while it cooks. This step is key to ensuring your ham does not dry out during its initial cook time.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine the pure maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, black pepper, and salt. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze thickens slightly.
Step 5: Brush the Glaze
After 1.5 hours of cooking, or 15-18 minutes per pound, carefully remove the ham from the oven. Take off the foil and generously brush the maple bourbon glaze all over the surface of the ham. This is where the magic begins, as the glaze will caramelize beautifully in the next step.
Step 6: Roast with Glaze
Return the ham to the oven and roast it for an additional 30 minutes. Every 10 minutes, baste the ham with the remaining glaze using a brush to ensure a rich, sticky coating forms on the surface. Check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for perfect doneness.
Step 7: Add Whole Cloves
If you’d like, during the last 15 minutes of roasting, insert whole cloves into the intersections of the scored diamond pattern. This not only enhances the flavor of your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham but also adds a charming decorative touch.
Step 8: Let it Rest
Once your ham is fully glazed and caramelized, carefully remove it from the oven. Allow the ham to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This crucial resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping each slice tender and juicy.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Now it’s time to slice the ham into beautiful wedges. Serve warm, drizzling any remaining glaze over the slices for that extra touch of sweetness. Your guests will love the comforting flavors of this Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham!
Expert Tips for Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham
Score Smartly: Make your diamond cuts deep enough without cutting through to the bone; this allows for maximum flavor absorption without compromising texture.
Baste Frequently: Don't skip those 10-minute baste intervals! They create a thicker, more caramelized glaze on your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham, enhancing its sweetness.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness—aim for juicy perfection!
Let It Rest: Resist the urge to slice right away; letting the ham rest for 15 minutes allows juices to redistribute, giving you moist, flavorful slices.
Decorate with Cloves: If using whole cloves, insert them just before the end of cooking. They not only add a lovely aroma but also make for an eye-catching presentation!
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during festive occasions! You can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance by combining all the ingredients in a saucepan, simmering for about 5-7 minutes, then allowing it to cool completely before refrigerating. Additionally, you can score and position the ham in the roasting pan up to 24 hours ahead of time, covering it tightly with foil to maintain moisture. When you're ready to cook, simply brush the pre-made glaze onto the ham and follow the remaining cooking steps as outlined. By prepping these components, you’ll enjoy a stress-free cooking experience while still serving a delicious, crowd-pleasing Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham that’s just as delightful!
How to Store and Freeze Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham
Fridge: Store leftover Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. This preserves the delicious glaze and moisture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C), covered with foil, until warmed through—about 20-30 minutes to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
Slicing Tips: Slice your ham before storing to make it easier for quick meals later. This way, you can enjoy convenient portions without losing flavor!
What to Serve with Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham
When it comes to crafting a memorable meal, the right side dishes can really harmonize beautifully with your main course.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes creates a comforting balance with the sweet glaze of the ham.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy, caramelized veggies add a delightful earthy crunch, enhancing the meal's flavor profile. Serve them sprinkled with balsamic for added zing.
- Honey Roasted Carrots: The natural sweetness of honey-roasted carrots mirrors the glaze's flavors, making every bite a symphony of sweetness.
- Classic Macaroni and Cheese: This all-time favorite brings creamy richness that compliments the savory ham perfectly, ensuring every guest leaves satisfied.
- Homemade Coleslaw: Fresh, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, warm ham, brightening the plate with color and texture.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy, fruity contrast to the maple sweetness, cranberry sauce adds a zesty punch that elevates the dish's overall taste.
- Cheddar Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits serve as perfect vessels to mop up the extra glaze, bringing an added layer of satisfaction to each bite.
- Sparkling Cider: A glass of bubbly cider enhances the festive feel and palate cleanser, refreshing your taste buds between savory bites.
- Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with this spiced classic; it echoes the warmth of the ham while offering a delightful contrast of textures.
Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to personalize your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham experience!
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Low-Sugar: Substitute maple syrup with sugar-free syrup for a lower-calorie option without sacrificing flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a sweet and spicy combination that packs a punch.
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Herbaceous Flair: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic twist that adds depth and freshness.
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Citrus Burst: Include the zest of an orange or lemon in the glaze for a delightful citrusy note that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Smoky Flavor: Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the glaze for an irresistible smoky undertone that enhances the savory ham.
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Marmalade Glaze: Replace some of the maple syrup with orange marmalade to bring added texture and a burst of citrus goodness. This will make your glaze not only sweet but also tangy.
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Mustard Variation: Try using spicy brown mustard instead of Dijon for an extra layer of flavor and a subtle heat that complements the sweetness wonderfully.
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Dried Fruit: Toss in some chopped dried apricots or cranberries into the glaze for an unexpected sweetness and chewy texture that makes each bite exciting.
With these variations, you can enjoy an entirely new experience with each Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham dish! And if you're looking for more side pairings, our perfect pairings for ham can really complete your meal in style!
Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting a bone-in ham, look for one that’s fully cooked for ease of preparation. A ham weighing between 8-10 pounds is ideal, as it offers enough meat for generous servings while ensuring even cooking. Snag one with a nice marbled appearance and a pleasant aroma, avoiding any that show excessive dark spots or a dry exterior.
What’s the best way to store leftover ham?
Very! You can store leftover Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to seal it tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Alternatively, place the ham in a heavy-duty freezer bag or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham?
Certainly! To freeze, ensure your ham is completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn; label it with the date. When ready to enjoy, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 325°F (165°C) covered with foil until warmed through, which typically takes about 20-30 minutes.
What should I do if my ham turns out dry?
If your ham ends up dry, don’t worry! One way to prevent this is to ensure you keep it covered with foil during the initial cook time. If you find it dry after cooking, slice the ham and serve it with extra glaze poured over the top, which can help add moisture and flavor. Next time, aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for perfectly juicy results and basting every 10 minutes!
Can pets eat Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham?
It's best to be cautious! While plain cooked ham in small amounts is generally safe for dogs, the glaze includes ingredients like bourbon, sugar, and mustard which aren't healthy for pets. Avoid giving your fur babies any cooked ham that contains these ingredients or excess salt. Always consult your vet for safe food options for your pets!
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free or adjust for allergies?
Absolutely! To make the Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham gluten-free, substitute the Dijon mustard with a gluten-free variety. You can also use coconut aminos for a soy sauce alternative that is both flavor-rich and gluten-free. Always read labels when choosing ingredients to avoid allergens, especially concerning sugars and prepared condiments.
Irresistibly Sweet Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare a roasting pan with a rack.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Place the ham cut side down on the roasting rack and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- In a medium saucepan, combine all glaze ingredients and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- After 1.5 hours of cooking, remove the ham and brush it with glaze.
- Return the ham to the oven for an additional 30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes.
- Insert whole cloves into the ham during the last 15 minutes of roasting if desired.
- Let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice and serve warm with remaining glaze drizzled over the top.
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